Argus News - 23 Killed In Massive Fire After Cylinder Blast At Goa’s Birch Club; President Murmu, PM Modi Offer Condolences

Panaji, Dec 7: At least 23 people died after a fire broke out at a club named Birch in North Goa’s Arpora late Saturday night.

According to reports, the fire broke out following a cylinder blast at around midnight.

The incident took place in the night club, in Baga, one of Goa’s most popular beaches, in Arpora village, around 25 km from the state capital, Panaji, shortly after midnight.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who visited the site late night, said most of the victims were kitchen staff, including three women, and added that “three to four tourists” were also among those killed.

Preliminary reports indicate that the nightclub had not complied with fire safety regulations.

President Droupadi Murmu expressed grief over the tragic fire incident. In a post on X, she conveyed her condolences to the bereaved families.


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“Deeply pained by the tragic fire incident in North Goa district resulting in the loss of precious lives. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. May they find strength during this difficult time. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured,” the President said in a post.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences. Taking to Twitter, the PM wrote: “The fire mishap in Arpora, Goa is deeply saddening. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover at the earliest. I have spoken to Goa CM Dr. Pramod Sawant Ji about the situation. The State Government is providing all possible assistance to those affected.”

PM Modi also announced that an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from the PMNRF will be provided to the next of kin of each person who died in Goa mishap, while the injured will receive Rs 50,000.